Virginia Commonwealth University

The 'ELEVATE' strategic plan, an acronym for Expanding Leadership Enrichment and Volunteerism for Alumni Through Engagement, outlines a new direction for alumni engagement at Virginia Commonwealth University. The plan focuses on making alumni association membership free to increase participation, offering diverse opportunities including social events, lifelong learning, and professional networking. Its primary goal is to engage 25% of alumni annually through various avenues such as volunteering, mentorship, and financial contributions, thereby fostering a more inclusive and active alumni community.

The discussion panel featured trailblazers who shared their experiences as students and alumni. Key topics included the history and formation of the African American Alumni Council, the importance of increasing Black faculty and staff representation at the university, student government elections in the 1970s, and the establishment and reactivation of the Black Awakening Choir.

The committee convened in a closed session to discuss the appointment of specific board positions. Following the return to open session, the committee formally certified the closed meeting's adherence to legal requirements. The committee then acted to recommend the appointment of the Secretary, Vice Rector, and Rector for the upcoming year to the full Board of Visitors.

The committee discussed the board self-assessment process and delegated the authority to oversee its execution. Following a closed session, the committee formally adopted a resolution of certification regarding the confidentiality of the discussions held. Furthermore, the committee acted to recommend the appointments of a new Secretary, Vice Rector, and Rector for the Board of Visitors to be ratified at a future full board meeting.

The joint meeting focused on governance work, operational strategies for the health system, and the approval of an employment contract for an executive level position. Reports were presented by the Rector and the President, highlighting university momentum, research expansion goals, and strategic initiatives. Action items included authorization for construction manager procurement for the East Marshall Street Well Project Memorial Burial Interment, and a review of the FY2027 budget and the post tenure review policy. The boards also conducted a closed session to discuss personnel matters and legal contracts before returning to open session to certify their discussions and approve personnel-related appointments.